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Myrrh Liquid Extract

Also known as: Commiphora myrrha Engl., Myrrh, Myrrha, Myrrh resin, Commiphora myrrha

Overview

Myrrh liquid extract is derived from the resin of the Commiphora myrrha tree and has been traditionally used in medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and potential anticancer properties. It is commonly found in oral hygiene products like mouthwashes and topical formulations for periodontal diseases. The extract contains bioactive metabolites, including sesquiterpenes like bisabolene, contributing to its pharmacological effects. Research includes in vitro, in vivo, and preliminary clinical studies, with growing interest in its therapeutic potential, especially in inflammation and cancer treatment. The evidence base is still emerging, requiring more rigorous randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews to confirm efficacy and safety. Myrrh is available in various forms, including liquid extracts, resins, and powders, sourced primarily from the Commiphora myrrha tree native to regions in Africa and the Middle East.

Benefits

Myrrh liquid extract has demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects and benefits for oral health. Preliminary clinical studies show significant reductions in dental plaque and gingival inflammation, with myrrh mouthwash improving plaque reduction and gingival inflammation parameters, comparable to chlorhexidine mouthwash. It also showed efficacy in reducing subgingival gram-negative periodontal pathogens, suggesting benefits in periodontal disease management. Experimental studies indicate that myrrh and its metabolites exhibit antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic effects in various cancer cell lines, including breast cancer, prostate cancer, leukemia, and glioblastoma. The bioactive compound bisabolene has shown significant inhibitory effects on breast cancer cell growth both in vitro and in vivo.

How it works

Myrrh's anti-inflammatory effects are likely mediated through the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the reduction of microbial biofilms in the oral cavity, leading to decreased gingival inflammation and plaque formation. Its anticancer activity involves the induction of apoptosis and inhibition of tumor cell proliferation via multiple molecular pathways, including the activation of p38 MAP kinase and modulation of gene expression related to cancer cell survival. The resin contains sesquiterpenes and other metabolites that interact with cellular signaling pathways, contributing to its pharmacological effects.

Side effects

Myrrh extracts used in mouthwash formulations have been generally well-tolerated in clinical studies, with no significant adverse effects reported in the context of oral hygiene. There is limited data on systemic safety, but traditional use and preliminary studies suggest a favorable safety profile at topical doses. No significant drug interactions or contraindications have been reported in the reviewed literature, but caution is advised due to limited data on long-term systemic use. While generally safe for topical use, potential side effects could include allergic reactions or skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Due to limited research, pregnant or breastfeeding women should exercise caution and consult with a healthcare provider before using myrrh products.

Dosage

Clinical studies on oral health have used myrrh mouthwash at approximately 1% concentration, showing efficacy comparable to 0.2% chlorhexidine. There is no established dosing guideline for systemic or anticancer use due to a lack of clinical trials. Topical application and mouthwash use appear to be the most studied and safest routes. Given the limited data on systemic use, it is crucial to adhere to recommended concentrations in oral care products and consult healthcare professionals for any other potential applications. There is no established upper limit for topical use, but exceeding recommended concentrations may increase the risk of irritation.

FAQs

Is myrrh effective for oral health?

Yes, evidence supports its use as an anti-plaque and anti-inflammatory agent in mouthwashes, comparable to standard treatments like chlorhexidine. Benefits were observed within 3 weeks in clinical studies.

Can myrrh treat cancer?

Preclinical studies suggest potential anticancer effects, but clinical evidence is lacking, so it should not replace conventional cancer therapies. Further research is needed.

Is myrrh safe?

Topical use in oral care is generally safe; systemic safety requires further research. Consult a healthcare professional before using myrrh products, especially if pregnant or breastfeeding.

How quickly does it work?

Oral health benefits were observed within 3 weeks in clinical studies when using myrrh mouthwash. Individual results may vary.

Research Sources

https://opendentistryjournal.com/VOLUME/13/PAGE/1/FULLTEXT/ – A preliminary clinical trial demonstrated that myrrh mouthwash significantly reduced dental plaque and gingival inflammation over 3 weeks, with effects comparable to chlorhexidine. The study included a control group and showed clinical significance in oral hygiene improvement, suggesting myrrh's potential as an effective alternative to standard antimicrobial agents in dentistry.
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/15347354241309659 – A comprehensive review and experimental studies on myrrh's role in breast cancer highlighted its antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic effects in vitro and in vivo. The study emphasized myrrh's multi-targeted mechanisms and potential as a less toxic complementary therapy, though clinical trials are needed to confirm efficacy and safety in humans.
https://actascientific.com/ASDS/pdf/ASDS-07-1748.pdf – A review comparing myrrh and miswak mouthwashes in periodontal disease management found myrrh to be more effective in reducing plaque and gingival inflammation, with clinical improvements noted after scaling and root planning. The study supported myrrh's role in controlling subgingival biofilm and inflammation, reinforcing its use in oral hygiene.
https://www.science.gov/topicpages/m/medicine+salacia+oblonga – This science.gov topic page provides general information about Salacia oblonga and its medicinal uses. While not directly related to myrrh, it highlights the importance of researching traditional medicines for potential therapeutic applications and understanding their mechanisms of action.
https://www.science.gov/topicpages/c/complementary+treatment+modality.html – This science.gov topic page discusses complementary treatment modalities. While not specific to myrrh, it provides context on the role of complementary therapies in healthcare and the need for rigorous scientific evaluation to determine their efficacy and safety.